IBM XL C/C++ Compilers

A common high level optimizer across the POWER and z/OS XL C/C++[1] compilers optimizes the source program using platform-agnostic optimizations such as interprocedural analysis, profile-directed feedback, and loop and vector optimizations.

A low-level optimizer on each platform performs function-level optimizations and generates optimized code for a specific operating system and hardware platforms.

The particular optimizations performed for any given compilation depend upon the optimization level chosen under option control (O2 to O5) along with any other optimization-related options, such as those for interprocedural analysis or loop optimizations.

The XL compiler on IBM i series for C/C++, is called ixlc. It is a qsh CLI based on the same assets than the CRTCPPMOD / CRTPGM system commands. Is is compatible with C++98, and partially with C++11. Is was discontinued in 2011.

A 60-day installable evaluation version is available for download for XL C/C++ for AIX.[2] In June 2016, IBM introduced XL C/C++ for Linux Community Edition, which is a no-charge and fully functional edition for unlimited production use.[3]

The XL compilers on AIX have delivered leadership scores in the SPEC CPU2000 and CPU2006 benchmarks, in combination with specific IBM POWER system processor announcements, for example, SPEC CPU2006 Floating Point[4] score of 71.5 in May 2010 and [5] score of 4051 in August 2006.

Current versions of XL C/C++ for AIX (16.1) and XL C/C++ for Linux (16.1.1), are based on open-source Clang front end (part of the Clang/LLVM open source project). They provide support for C11, C++03, C++11, and C++14.

A new monthly pricing option is offered in XL C/C++ for AIX 16.1 and XL Fortran for AIX 16.1 to provide more flexibility for cloud-based use cases. This pricing model is on a term or subscription basis, with Software Subscription and Support included.

With the launch of IBM Power10, the IBM XL C/C++ for AIX compiler has been modernized and re-branded to IBM Open XL C/C++ for AIX. IBM Open XL C/C++ for AIX 17.1.0 combines Clang/LLVM technology with IBM's industry-leading optimizations, which provides the following improved capabilities:

• Greater application performance
• Enhanced language standard support
• Enhanced GCC compatibilities
• Faster build speed

IBM Open XL compilers offer monthly licenses (per Virtual Processor Core) to facilitate the journey to the hybrid cloud. Meanwhile, user-based licenses (i.e. Authorized user and Concurrent user licenses) are still available.

The z/OS XL C/C++ compiler exploits the IBM Z® systems. It enables the development of high-performing business applications and system programs on z/OS while maximizing hardware use and improving application performance. IBM z/OS XL C/C++ uses services provided by the z/OS Language Environment® and Runtime Library Extensions base elements. It supports embedded CICS® and SQL statements in the C/C++ source, which simplifies the operation of C/C++ within CICS and Db2® environments. It works in concert with the IBM Application Delivery Foundation for z/OS.

IBM® Open XL C/C++ 1.1 for z/OS® is the newest C/C++ compiler on z/OS that is fully based on the open source LLVM infrastructure. Open XL C/C++ 1.1 supports up to C17/C18 and C++17 language standard features and leverages the features of the IBM z16™ mainframe, ideal for z/OS UNIX System Services users porting applications from distributed platforms. Open XL C/C++ 1.1 is available as a no-charge add-on feature for users who have enabled the z/OS XL C/C++ (an optionally priced feature) on z/OS 2.4 or z/OS 2.5.